Abstract  [Objectives]  To clarify the migration of noctuid moths in Shandong province, including the armyworm and cotton bollworm. [Methods]  During the transitional period between the northward and southward migration of noctuid moths (from July 11 to August 19, 2021), migratory insects were trapped and monitored with high-altitude lights in the Junan area. The ovaries of 9 major noctuid moth species (Helicoverpa armigera, Spodoptera litura, Spodoptera exigua, Plusia agnata, Agrotis ipsilon, Agrotis segetum, Mythimna separata, Athelis lepigone and Argyrogramma albostriata) were dissected and their population structure analyzed. The migration trajectory of these moths was investigated in relation to air flow at high altitude. [Results]  The southwest monsoon in July provides the airflow conditions required for northward migration. However, from the end of July to early August (within about two weeks), the direction of the air flow changed quickly to that conducive to southward migration. Noctuid moths, such as Helicoverpa armigera, Spodoptera exigua and Mythimna separata, had a clear south-north migration trajectory driven by the airflow at high altitude. The northward migration was a combination of native and immigrant individuals, whereas the southward migration was mainly comprised of immigrants. [Conclusion]  This indicates that Shandong province is a breeding area for noctuid pests in spring and summer, and is a source area of these pests for northeast China. It is also the overwintering site for noctuid pests in Northeast China and lies on their southern migration pathway.